Cooling Center Opens At Rockville Public Library

VERNON, CT — The town of Vernon has opened a cooling center at the Rockville Public Library to help residents who do not have access to air conditioning keep cool this week.

What town official termed "oppressive heat and humidity" are forecast through Friday. Mayor Daniel Champagne and the Vernon Office of Emergency and Risk Management have been monitoring weather forecasts and directed town staff to make the library available as a cooling center.

“Extreme heat can be dangerous and I urge people to stay hydrated, stay out of the sun and avoid exerting
themselves,” Champagne said. "For people who do not have access to air conditioned spaces, the
Rockville Public Library is available Wednesday until 6 p.m., Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday from 1
to 6 p.m. The library staff also has water available for patrons."

Vernon residents can also keep cool at Vernon's swimming areas.

The schedule is:

• Newhoca Beach, 185 Grier Road, is open Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Community Pool, 375 Hartford Turnpike, is open Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Valley Falls Beach, 300 Valley Falls Road, is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

"As we endure these few days of oppressive heat, I ask our residents to look out for each other," Champagne said. "Check on your relatives and neighbors, especially those who are older. And please remember not to ever leave children or pets unattended in a hot car."